How to Make a Data Table on the Computer

Data tables are tools that are useful in displaying information. Whether you are wishing to record data for a science project, or baseball stats, data tables are the best way to keep track of it all. Constructing data tables is done most neatly and easily on a computer. There are many programs that can be used to construct data tables, but Microsoft Excel is one of the most popular and easiest to use.

Instructions

1

Open Microsoft Excel. Open a new file. Begin entering data in column A. Data in this column are usually independent variables, or categories of data. For instance, if you are entering baseball stats, you will likely enter the individual players names in this column.

2

Decide which dependent variables you are going to record and label your columns with these categories. In our example of baseball stats, you may want to record number of times at bat, runs batted in, home runs, or hits. For each of these categories, write each name of the category in a separate column.

3

Record the values you choose to record in the boxes corresponding to the independent and dependent variables.

4

Perform any statistics you need to, using the statistics function. Using Microsoft Excel, you have the ability to calculate values such as means and standard errors, which can be a useful tool.